Historical Thinking and the Shaping of Nursing Identity

Nursing history was a core component of nurse training programs as early as 1907, when American Adelaide Nutting published her three-volume history. However, it had all but disappeared by the end of the 20th century, supplanted by other subjects. The University of Ottawa Nursing History Research Unit developed two online nursing history courses, in English and French, respectively, which proved popular and prompted substantial interest in the reintroduction of nursing history to our curriculum. This article presents findings of a study that examined the concept of "historical thinking"-what it is, how it develops, and what it contributes to practice-based professions-based on student postings in these courses. Analysis suggests that primary sources and critical appraisal skills are keys to the formation of historical thinking, and that these courses fostered a strong sense of professional identity among participants who often lamented lack of previous exposure to nursing history. Online nursing history courses can capitalize on e-learning technologies, and fit crowded curricula and student learning styles, while extending the reach of historians beyond traditional university walls.